Control and Prevention of Noxious Weeds

Controlling weeds poses a special dilemma because, once a weed infestation is identified, it is often already so extensive that containment is difficult and expensive. Biological control (using organisms such as introduced insects or diseases to suppress populations) is effective in slowing the spread of weeds but generally cannot eradicate the infestation. Manually pulling weeds or using machines to dig them up is effective with smaller infestations if done carefully to avoid spreading seeds. Herbicides can be effective in controlling weeds and stopping their spread especially when infestations are detected early. Land managers generally take an integrated approach, using a combination of these methods.

The best way to control noxious weeds is to prevent them from entering the land in the first place. Following are some general guidelines for preventing weeds from entering public lands and from spreading to new uninfested areas:

Commercial seed should be required to be free of noxious weeds and labeled accordingly.

Collect seed on the land and use local native seeds for planting.

Consider seeding only in graded areas or areas where damage will occur, such as erosion, if seeding is not done.

Prohibit livestock lessees from supplemental feeding while their livestock in grazing on public land.

Keep livestock in a holding field for 24 to 48 hours before they are released onto open range.